Edmonton’s Response in 2016: Hospitality

“Anyone coming down from Ft. Mac need a place to stay? I have a bed and a pull-out couch at my house. Call me!”

Facebook posts like this were common in an outpouring of support for wildfire-devastated neighbours from the north.

The refugee crisis from Syria and other war-torn countries also prompted an opening of borders and an outpouring of care. What was our first instinct when seeing neighbours in crisis? Hospitality. By opening our doors and our communities, we gave rest to people fleeing war and wildfires. It brought people hope, and a place to heal.

In 2017, what will prompt us to open our doors and our hearts? Will it be a crisis somewhere across the world? Or will it be a need close to home that claims our attention? Be it the struggle of a young family looking for a safe and affordable home, a senior on a long waiting list, or just someone trying to find their way alone in a new place, CRIHI invites you to work with us in making 2017 a year where Edmonton’s compassion and hospitality again shine fiercely for those who need hope and home so desperately.